On Syria and Iraq Pontiff appeals, “We need to find a solution, which is never a violent one, because violence only creates new wounds”.

Militants send message of “violence and intolerance” by destroying symbol of Christianity and encouraging Syria's Christians to flee their homeland: Bishop Audo.

“Aleppo has been cut off for 16 days, with no telecommunications, Internet or electricity... with mortar shells hitting the city every day.”

Vatican to hold study day on the plight of the Syrian people.